Low slung winter light is magical isn't it? On Monday I captured a couple of shots after my class in Kentish Town. The rays of light through the Crittall windows in these warehouse studios were beautiful. This has inspired me a lot this week, especially in my yoga practice.
I avoided talking about the Sage Marichi in my last blog (even though my classes were based around these poses). To be honest I didn't much like the mythological character, who puts a curse on his wife for not washing his feet!
Read more here if you're interested
But, Marichi translates as Rays of Light. Both from the sun and moon. Which as we know are both masculine and feminine energies. So, I've come a full circle and now want to embrace looking at things like different shafts of light and the Marichyasana poses. These poses have many different aspects to them which require both masculine (strong) and feminine (softness) effort. Which is the same as what yoga sutra 2.46 sthira sukham asanam teaches us.
As well as this, I think being able to view things from a different perspective, like rays of light is an important part of the yoga tradition. In fact a life lesson generally.
The 4 poses in Marichyasana are significantly different but start the same. B & D are considerably challenging for many who are tight in the hips, as it requires a deep half lotus and external rotation of the thigh. Some can take years of consistent practice and some body shapes and muscle type may never fully adapt. Equally, these poses can illuminate our weaknesses too. But I feel having a go and seeing how the light is cast can help us take lessons off the mat too. What's more important is being present and removing the expectations.
Here's a link to the excellent Joey Mills and Stu from Purple Valley talking about Marichyasana D, which is know as being one of the hardest sitting poses. Note - Joey is slender and has long limbs, both of which are a huge anatomical advantage when approaching this asana.
So, it's 2nd December and Advent is in full flow. I've been making my own wreath for as long as I've been lucky enough to have a front door. This year I've really enjoyed sharing this much loved tradition with others. It's felt a bit like sharing yoga. It's a new thing and I'm having a go, sharing a bit of my own experience with others. Hopefully, having a go at something new is rewarding for them too.
Casting new light, with new experiences and having a go.
Namaste.
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